On a budget? Try the free natural hot spring in La Fortuna. It's easy to make time to relax in a tropical rainforest.

With several active volcanos spread throughout Costa Rica, volcanic hot springs are a popular choice. Most of them are located in La Fortuna and offer luxury experiences like thermal pools, waterfalls, slides, restaurants, saunas and spas. However these options aren't wallet friendly and can cost you up to $150.

If you're looking for an inexpensive option, try the free local hot spring beside Tabacon Resort. From La Fortuna, you can take a 15 minute taxi ride to the entrance Tabacon Resort. Cross the road through the yellow gate and head under the concrete bridge to get the the thermal pools. Take you time and adventure around to find the different pools and waterfalls.

How we did it?

We tagged along with a local who showed us the best spots in the hot springs. We went at night, which is why we don't have any pictures of it.

This is actually one of my favourite memories because there were fireflies zooming around, you could look up to stargaze or just close your eyes and listen to the natural sounds of the tropical jungle. It was quite surreal.

Things to remember:

You're in a river, so there's going to be rocks. Try to bring appropriate footwear or you'll be stuck walking on rocks. It's honestly not that fun. There was a lot of regret that day.

If you're going at night, bring some type of lighting equipment like flashlights, headlamps or candles. You're pretty much walking in darkness.

Try not to stay in the hot pools for too long. Switch to the cooler pools every so often to avoid heat-related illnesses.